Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Gomphocarpus glaucophyllus, Blue Milkweed, is an attractive perennial herb with powdery blue-green foliage and striking white flowers, attracting pollinators.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 2/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains cardiac glycosides which can be harmful if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, as Gomphocarpus glaucophyllus prefers well-drained conditions and can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Reduce watering in winter.
Prune in early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged stems. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
After flowering, you can deadhead to promote further blooms, or leave the seed pods for visual interest and potential propagation.
Easily propagated from seed sown in spring, either indoors or directly outdoors after the last frost. Seeds may require light stratification.
Cuttings can also be taken from young, non-flowering shoots in late spring or early summer and rooted in well-draining soil.
Repot young plants annually or when root-bound, typically in spring before new growth begins. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Blue Milkweed (Gomphocarpus glaucophyllus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Gomphocarpus |
| Species | Gomphocarpus glaucophyllus |
Similar in genus Gomphocarpus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
